In a significant move for Pakistan’s military and political structure, lawmakers have extended the tenures of the heads of the country’s armed forces to five years. This change, confirmed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, means the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir, will serve until 2028. The legislation was swiftly passed in both the National Assembly and the Senate, with the President’s assent, cementing changes that eliminate retirement age and service limits for the heads of the army, navy, and air force.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking to local media, emphasized that this new law addresses Pakistan’s history of contentious extensions for military chiefs. By ending this recurring debate, he believes that the stability provided by fixed leadership terms will ultimately benefit democratic governance in Pakistan.
The passage of these reforms saw heated exchanges in the National Assembly, and opposition parties, notably Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), voiced strong opposition. Clashes broke out as PTI members argued against the legislation, reflecting the divided views on the issue.
Alongside the extension bill, lawmakers approved an increase in Supreme Court seats, signaling an intense period of change in Pakistan’s governance. With General Asim Munir’s extended term now confirmed until 2028, Pakistan’s military and political landscape faces a new era of stability and continuity, but opposition remains vocal about the implications of these changes.
, General Syed Asim Munir, will serve until 2028. The legislation was swiftly passed in both the National Assembly and the Senate, with the President’s assent, cementing changes that eliminate retirement age and service limits for the heads of the army, navy, and air force.){kind=link}